Helpful Tips Regarding Towing Safety

By Jason Maynard


Tow truck drivers take on a serious responsibility when transporting motor vehicles to and from various locations. They are exposed to a certain number of safety hazards, as they work with dangerous machinery and a vast array of trucks and automobiles. For this reason, towing safety is an important consideration.

Most tow truck drivers must wear gloves for the purpose of protecting their hands when working. This is because they are often called upon to retrieve vehicles that were damaged after becoming involved in accidents. The latter frequently create jagged textures on the surface of the vehicle, and protective gloves can assist the worker to avoid cuts and other injuries. Such gloves are also helpful when the driver is attaching chains and steel cables to various automobiles or trucks.

Shoes or boots featuring steel toes are usually recommended for tow truck and horse floats for sale drivers as well, as they work around potentially hazardous, heavy equipment. It is also a good idea for drivers to purchase boots or shoes with slip resistant soles. Footwear of this type can minimize the number of accidents that occur, as well as prevent injuries. When working in inclement weather, slickers or parkas are additional items in which such individuals should consider investing.

Some tasks require tow vehicle operators to pick up cars in high crime areas or secluded locations. This is why each employee should alert his or her manager of the location in which the job must be completed, and how long he or she expects to be in the area. When working after hours, the driver should turn on the vehicle's floodlights. Any employee who observes suspicious activity should not leave the vehicle, but rather telephone the police.

Defensive driving is also a vital consideration for anyone who operates a tow truck. The term itself is a broad phrase that covers numerous safety precautions, such as refusing to tailgate, being alert for potential road hazards, and refraining from speeding.

The truck's equipment should also be inspected before the driver begins a job. Chains should be a minimum of grade 7 or stronger. Any chains that show signs of wear or tear should be replaced. The winch and cable system of the truck should also be inspected for defects on a regular basis, and any irregular findings should be reported to one's employer.

Tow truck drivers face hazards from oncoming traffic on a regular basis. Therefore, it is essential to set up a towing safety zone. When recovering another automobile, the truck's emergency lights should always be engaged to alert other motorists of the situation. Reflective safety vests should also be worn regularly. Although it is not possible to prevent every accident or incident, implementing the aforementioned tips will drastically reduce the possibility of such occurrences.




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